Self-Determination Theory as a Theoretical Framework for a Responsive Approach to Child Feeding

Johanna Cormack; Katja Rowell; Gianina-Ioana Postăvaru

doi:10.1016/j.jneb.2020.02.005

Self-Determination Theory as a Theoretical Framework for a Responsive Approach to Child Feeding

J Nutr Educ Behav. 2020 Jun;52(6):646-651. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.02.005. Epub 2020 Apr 2.

Authors

Johanna Cormack¹, Katja Rowell², Gianina-Ioana Postăvaru³

Affiliations

¹ Department of Psychology, Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln, United Kingdomqry. Electronic address: Johanna.cormack@bishopg.ac.uk.
² No affiliation.
³ Department of Psychology, Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln, United Kingdomqry.

PMID: 32247759
DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.02.005

Abstract

Supporting positive childhood eating behaviors is a central and ongoing priority for health care providers, encompassing both health outcomes for typical eaters and best practice in relation to pediatric feeding challenges. Building on existing work, this perspective draws on literature from multiple fields to recommend the use of Self-Determination Theory as a framework for responsive feeding. Additionally, it contributes to the definition and conceptualization of responsive feeding. The 3 basic needs proposed by Self-Determination Theory (autonomy, relatedness and competence) have significant implications for both professional practice and the direction of future research.

Keywords: autonomy; responsive feeding, child feeding, Self-Determination Theory, parental feeding practices.

MeSH terms

Child
Child, Preschool
Feeding Behavior / psychology*
Feeding and Eating Disorders of Childhood / psychology
Health Promotion
Humans
Infant
Parents
Personal Autonomy*
Psychology, Child*
Self-Control / psychology